Description

Our client, a freight forwarder is looking for a Ocean Import Operator with a focus on Customs Clearance to join their office in Grays. What you'll be doing day to day: - Taking ownership of import shipments from arrival to delivery , keeping every file moving and up to date - Reviewing commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading and other supporting documents for accuracy and completeness - Identifying missing or incorrect information early and chasing customers, overseas agents and suppliers to resolve it - Providing clearance instructions and the required documentation to our customs manager, and following through to release - Understanding and applying the requirements of UK import procedures, including commodity codes, values, incoterms, duty and VAT, and any additional controls or certificates a commodity may need - Keeping customers informed with clear, proactive updates by phone and email - Liaising with hauliers, ports, depots and other third parties to keep delivery on track - Maintaining accurate records in our operating system and flagging anything that needs escalating - Working closely with the wider import team and supporting colleagues during busy periods and absence ## What we're looking for **Essential** - Ideally at least 2-3 years' experience in UK import operations, freight forwarding or customs clearance - Solid working knowledge of the UK import process and what is needed to get cargo cleared and delivered - Confident understanding of import documentation and the information a customs entry requires - Genuinely organised, with a keen eye for detail. - Comfortable managing multiple live shipments at once and prioritising sensibly - Confident and professional on the phone and over email, with customers and with third parties - Friendly and collaborative, and happy working as part of a small team of five - Able to work independently and take responsibility for your own files **Desirable** - Familiarity with freight forwarding operating system / customs software - MultiFreight - Exposure to a range of commodity types and any associated controls – able to do a customs entry